Why Motor Skills Matter : Improve Your Child's Physical Development to Enhance Learning and Self-Esteem

Practical advice for parents on the interaction among their child's muscular, mental, and motor development

"Why Motor Skills Matter provides not only knowledge but a game plan as to how parents can help their little ones develop optimal potential via play, stimulation, and establishment of an appropriate environment." --Ruth A. Peters, Ph.D., bestselling author of Laying Down the Law

According to pediatric physical therapist Tara Losquadro Liddle, playful interaction beginning in infancy is crucial to a child's learning ablilities, language, speech, and overall emotional balance. Filled with practical, age-appropriate activities for newborns up to five years old, Why Motor Skills Matter shows parents how to:

• Integrate touch, movement, and body awareness during playtime
• Bolster motor skills
• Develop appropriate play for each age level
• Understand their child's development

Why Motor Skills Matter explains the impact motor skills have on the neurodevelopment of a child, helping parents participate more fully in their child's development.

Tara Losquadro Liddle, a practicing pediatric physical therapist for almost 20 years, was the coordinator of pediatric physical therapy at Lenox Hill Hospital as well as the consulting physical therapist for its Neonatal Follow-Up Program for premature babies.

Laura Yorke is a veteran book editor and publishing executive.